Final answer:
Succinylcholine is used as a muscle relaxant during electroconvulsive therapy to prevent muscle contractions and ensure the safety of the client while electrical impulses are administered.
Step-by-step explanation:
A nurse caring for a client undergoing electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) may explain that succinylcholine is used as a muscle relaxant to prevent muscle contractions during the procedure. The medication helps ensure the client's safety while the electrical impulses effectively treat certain mental health conditions. It's part of the overall ECT protocol, which can include other treatments such as psychotherapy, medications like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or even advanced procedures like deep-brain stimulation, depending on the patient's needs.